Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians.
Buckingham Palace, 21st February 1854.
My dearest Uncle,— ... War is, I fear, quite inevitable. You will have seen that the Emperor Nicholas has not given a favourable answer to our Brother Napoleon (which I hear has disappointed him extremely, as he expected very great results from it); and the last proposals or attempts made by Buol14 it is to be hoped will not be accepted by Russia, for France and England could not accept them; but if Austria and Prussia go with us—as we hope they will—the War will only be a local one. Our beautiful Guards sail to-morrow. Albert inspected them yesterday. George is quite delighted to have a division....
I must now conclude, with Albert's affectionate love. Believe me always, your devoted Niece,
Victoria R.
Footnote 14: Austrian Premier and Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Queen Victoria to the Earl of Aberdeen.
THE BRITISH ARMY
Buckingham Palace, 24th February 1854.